§ Mr. HancockTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans the Government have to bring United Kingdom health spending into line with the EU average; and if he will make a statement. [40814]
§ Mr. HuttonThe European average for health spending has remained at between 7.9 and 8 per cent. of gross domestic product for a number of years. My right hon. Friend the Prime Minister has stated that, as long as the economy remains strong, we will reach the European Union average by 2005. Current spending plans will raise the level of United Kingdom total health expenditure to 7.6 per cent. of gross domestic product by 2003–04. Spending beyond this period will be decided in the coming spending review.